We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to browse this repository, you give consent for essential cookies to be used. You can read more about our Privacy and Cookie Policy.

Abstract

In a longitudinal study of attachment, children (N = 147) aged 50 and 61 months heard their mother and a stranger make conflicting claims. In 2 tasks, the available perceptual cues were equally consistent with either person’s claim but children generally accepted the mother’s claims over those of the stranger. In a 3rd task, the perceptual cues favored the stranger’s claims, and children generally accepted her claims over those of the mother. However, children’s pattern of responding varied by attachment status. The strategy of relying on the mother or the stranger, depending on the available perceptual cues, was especially evident among secure children. Insecure-avoidant children displayed less reliance on their mother’s claims, irrespective of the available cues, whereas insecure-resistant children displayed more.